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FAQs
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Q: What is Acupuncture and what does it do?
A: Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles usually stainless steel (sterile and single use) into specific points in the skin and muscles of the body. These points have been mapped out by the Chinese over thousands of years. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed that acupuncture points do exist.
The needles stimulate the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) which is a Chinese term for subtle energy. This energy controls the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. Like a fine tuned machine, if one connection is lost, the relay message is lost and the next relay in line to fire is not connected. This creates a domino effect and the end result is “something just isn’t working.” The body is an amazing machine which will tolerate a lot of disharmony before it caves in. The secret to maintaining any machine is proper maintenance and frequent tuning. Acupuncture helps the body heal itself by keeping the connections intact or creating smooth flowing Qi in your body.
Q: How does Acupuncture-Oriental Medicine work?
A: Oriental Medicine (OM) includes Acupuncture, Herbology, Moxibustion, Tui Na (Chinese massage) dietary therapy and exercise.
The Chinese developed and understanding of the body and the specific pathways to all organs. This network is like a web which goes deeply into the body connecting with more superficial pathways. This explains why inserting acupuncture needles into the arm can affect the Large Intestine or perhaps the Heart. If one part of this web gets disturbed it impacts all the fine connections which creates this web and dis- ease occurs.
The acupoints used in your treatment are like a prescription of points used for your specific disharmony. The human brain is like a computer, but more sophisticated than any computer we know. Think of the acupoints as a “computer program” Sometimes we just need a little reprogramming. The acupuncturist is like a computer programmer who makes sure that your computer is working smoothly.
Q: What can I expect?
A: The acupuncturist will sit down with you and ask about medical history, likes/dislikes, sleeping habits, emotions, stressors, cravings, energy levels and when they drop and an array of questions to get an idea what kind of “terrain” your body is showing, dry, wet, deficient or excess.
We will examine your wrist pulses (nine in each wrist) and your tongue. These give us clues as to what is going on inside your body. (Allow about two hours for the first visit and one hour for follow up visits). The acupuncturist will create a treatment plan for you based on all the information gathered in the initial intake. Depending on how long and the nature of the disharmony it could be a quick fix or it may take some time. Remember, Acupuncture is not a band aid, it works at a deeper level to correct, not mask the problem.
Q: Does it hurt?
A: Most people do feel something, not necessarily a sharp sensation like when you get an injection. Acupuncture needles are about twice the size of a human hair and are fillform (solid, not hollow) since we don’t have to take something out or put something into your body. However, when you put the metal needle into the acupoint you will feel a kind of surge. This may be pulling, distending, tingling, radiating or a numbing sensation. Once the needles are in place the sensation subsides and you should be able to sleep during your treatment. During your treatment you may feel a mild humming or buzzing in your body. My patients lovingly call this their “needle nap”.
Your practitioner will be sensitive to your needs and make you as comfortable as possible. Once in a while you may notice a spot of blood at one or more of the needle sites/or a small bruise could develop. This is usually minimal since the needles are so small, but please talk to your practitioner if you are concerned.
Q: Is it safe?
A: When looking for an acupuncturist be sure to look for proper qualifications. Many chiropractors and MD’s perform acupuncture. Depending on which state, these practitioners are required to get about 100 hours of training to give acupuncture. An NCCAOM (National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists); LAc. (licensed Acupuncturist); Dipl.Ac. (Diplomat of Acupuncture) DOM (Dr. of Oriental Medicine) OMD (Oriental medical Doctor) will have a minimum of four years training equivalent to a Masters Degree. Be sure to ask for credentials.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This will depend on the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint as well as your overall health. A series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time. Chinese herbs can be very helpful to speed this process along. Two treatments a week is not unusual with severe symptoms, once a week is usual although your practitioner will set up a protocol for your specific needs.
Patients often experience the most dramatic results in the first treatment. Some experience partial relief or their pain or other symptoms. This relief may last for various periods of time. The better you are at reporting results to your practitioner, the better we are able to taylor your treatment plan.
Q: What do I need to do for an acupuncture treatment?
A: 1. Wear loose clothing with minimal jewelry.
2. Avoid treatment when exhausted, hungry, extremely full, or after you have consumed alcohol.
3. Wear minimal make up (we need to see your complexion) and don’t scrape scrub or brush your tongue, we need to see it in its natural state.
After your treatment avoid sudden temperature changes ie: sitting in a hot tub or heavy exercise. You may feel energetic or you may feel so relaxed that you want to rest. Honor your body and be sure to schedule your appointments to allow some down time if you need it.
During treatment avoid changing your position or moving suddenly. If you are uncomfortable, tell your practitioner.
Some people experience dizziness, nausea, cold sweat, shortness of breath. This often occurs if you are nervous. Inform your practitioner immediately so he or she can readjust or withdraw the needles.
Be sure to let your practitioner know if you feel an increasing amount of pain or burning sensation during the treatment. If you find your treatment unbearable at any point, be sure to speak up so your practitioner can make the proper adjustments or stop the treatment.
Q: What does acupuncture treat?
A: Too many to list, but the World Health Organization has reported more than forty three conditions, including allergies, asthma, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, colds, flu, constipation, depression, gynecological disorder, headache, heart problems, infertility, insomnia, pre-menstrual syndrome, sciatica, sports injuries, tendonitis and stress.
Q: Will my insurance pay for acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine?
A: Most acupuncturists do not bill insurance for treatments. We can however give you a superbill or invoice that you can submit to your insurance if it is covered.
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